Dave, scroll up to TFM75s comment on Dreamer's solution which I also came up with while I was editing my response. You only need the MCT if you have a MC cartridge.

Preamp = box with knobs and switches
Phono Preamp = circuit that amplifies the phono cartridge and equalizes it to RIAA specs. Can be internal or external for pre-amps not equipped with a phono stage like your Lightstar
Pre-pre-preamp or MCT = 10db step up device ONLY needed for Low Output MC cartridges

Now that James Van Dyke put quieter op amps in my C-4000 phono section, I use it as my phono input to my Sunfire (rather than the Sunfire's). I also use the C-4000 as a can amp. It also takes the output from my computer through an external DAC.

I use the phono stage from either my C-1 or C-19 for vinyl. The tape output feeds Lightstar, and all is right in Ray's TT world The tape loop on the C-19 is gain and tone free if used in the by-pass mode.

ray

Magnaryder

Its going to be used equipment when I sell it, so it may as well be used equipment when I buy it.